Sleep Apnea Masks Will Need To Fit Precisely If They Are To Be Successful
There are various ways to treat sleep apnea today that do not involve surgery or other intrusive measures and using sleep apnea masks is one of the most common methods of treatment. A mask will not however be effective, and indeed can make matters worse, if it is not designed correctly and, more importantly, if it is not professionally fitted.
You will need to be fitted not only for either a nose or nose and mouth mask, but also for the head straps which holds the mask onto your face and the tubing which delivers air to the mask. Once everything is connected up a machine beside your bed delivers air to the mask under pressure and this additional pressure through your nose and mouth helps to keep you airway open during the night.
There has to be a good seal to ensure adequate airflow and, of course, the mask must also be comfortable enough for you to sleep in it. The straps should not feel too tight not only because of discomfort but also because tight straps can break the seal and cause leaks in the mask. Still, the mask should fit snugly enough to accommodate any sleeping position without moving. At a minimum masks need to cover your nose and, if you tend to breathe through your mouth, will need to cover that as well.
Although most masks have a hard plastic body, they usually have softer silicone or gel seals for the areas that rest on the face. In addition, other masks have comfort features such as adjustable pads that sit on the forehead and inflate when the machine is activated so that the straps do not become too tight. With a gel cushion masks can fit snugly to your face without producing pressure points. Masks with a memory foam-like substance can adjust to the contours of your face.
One important thing to consider if you elect to use a sleep apnea mask is whether or not you have allergies towards the materials used in its construction. Also, you will need to think about whether or not you have any skin conditions which might be adversely affected by wearing a mask. For example, if you have dry skin then you might need to look at using a non-petroleum based moisturizer which will protect your skin while at the same time allowing the mask to maintain its seal.
If you are going to use a sleep apnea mask then you must ensure that it is the right treatment for you and that means consulting your doctor before you start. If this is a good treatment for you then make sure that your mask is professionally fitted.
Learn considerably more about sleep apnea including the use of sleep apnea masks as a type of treatment.
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